The Vande Bharat Express has reshaped premium intercity travel in India. On the Bhopal → Jabalpur corridor, this semi-high-speed train lets you cover the distance faster and in more comfort than regular expresses.
If you want speed, comfort, reliable schedules, and onboard amenities – the Vande Bharat is one of the best ways to travel between Madhya Pradesh’s capital region and the Jabalpur area.
Who should choose it?
Business travellers, tourists heading toward Jabalpur’s cultural sights, or anyone who values time and comfort over low cost.
Overview of the Route
- 🛤️ Approx Distance (Bhopal → Jabalpur): ~330 km (segment of the Vande Bharat Rewa service)
- ⏱️ Approx Journey Time: ~4 hrs 15 mins between Bhopal (RKMP) & Jabalpur (JBP)
- 📍 Why Popular: Fastest scheduled train on this corridor with modern coaches and fewer stops compared to traditional expresses.
Vande Bharat Express Timings (Bhopal ↔ Jabalpur)
This Vande Bharat service officially runs between Rani Kamlapati (Bhopal) and Rewa, but most passengers use it for the Bhopal ↔ Jabalpur segment.
| Direction | Train No. | Departure Station & Time | Arrival Station & Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bhopal → Jabalpur | 20173 | Rani Kamlapati (RKMP) – 15:30 | Jabalpur (JBP) – 19:45 |
| Jabalpur → Bhopal | 20174 | Jabalpur (JBP) – 08:25 | Rani Kamlapati (RKMP) – 13:30 |
📌 Train names: 20173/20174 Vande Bharat Express (Rewa ↔ Rani Kamlapati)
Advisory: These times are based on the current published schedule. Confirm live timings on IRCTC before travel.
Detailed Time Table (Bhopal ↔ Jabalpur Segment)
This is the official schedule for Vande Bharat Express 20173 (west → east).
| Stop No. | Station Name | Arrival Time | Departure Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rani Kamlapati (Bhopal) | – | 15:30 |
| 2 | Narmadapuram | 16:18 | 16:20 |
| 3 | Itarsi Junction | 16:45 | 16:55 |
| 4 | Pipariya | 17:28 | 17:30 |
| 5 | Narsinghpur | 18:28 | 18:30 |
| 6 | Jabalpur Junction | 19:45 | 19:55 |
| (continues towards Rewa) | – | – | – |
- 🛫 Departure Station: Rani Kamlapati (RKMP)
- 🛬 Arrival Station (for this segment): Jabalpur Junction (JBP)
- ⏱️ Approx. Journey Duration (RKMP → JBP): ~4 hrs 15 mins
- 🚆 Ideal Travel Option For: Day-trippers, business travellers, short-notice trips
Detailed Time Table (Bhopal ↔ Jabalpur Segment)
This is the official schedule for Vande Bharat Express 20173 (west → east).
| Stop No. | Station Name | Arrival Time | Departure Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rani Kamlapati (Bhopal) | – | 15:30 |
| 2 | Narmadapuram | 16:18 | 16:20 |
| 3 | Itarsi Junction | 16:45 | 16:55 |
| 4 | Pipariya | 17:28 | 17:30 |
| 5 | Narsinghpur | 18:28 | 18:30 |
| 6 | Jabalpur Junction | 19:45 | 19:55 |
| (continues towards Rewa) | – | – | – |
- 🛫 Departure Station: Rani Kamlapati (RKMP)
- 🛬 Arrival Station (for this segment): Jabalpur Junction (JBP)
- ⏱️ Approx. Journey Duration (RKMP → JBP): ~4 hrs 15 mins
- 🚆 Ideal Travel Option For: Day-trippers, business travellers, short-notice trips
Ticket Prices
Because this Vande Bharat technically runs beyond Jabalpur, fares are segment-based and usually higher than regular trains.
| Class | Quota Type | Fare (One-Way) |
|---|---|---|
| AC Chair Car (CC) | General | ₹1,135–₹1,185 |
| AC Chair Car (CC) | Tatkal | ₹1,200–₹1,400 |
| Executive Chair Car (EC) | General | ₹2,000–₹2,200 |
| Executive Chair Car (EC) | Tatkal | ₹2,300–₹2,400 |
Important Notes:
• Fares shown are estimated based on current IRCTC data and press reports.
• Rates vary by station of boarding/deboarding.
• Tatkal booking opens 1 day before departure (check IRCTC quota rules).
• Catering charges, dynamic pricing, and other fees may apply.
What Is Included in Your Ticket
Vande Bharat tickets include the basics you expect from premium travel:
- ✔️ Reserved seat (AC Chair Car or Executive)
- ✔️ Controlled temperature cabin
- ✔️ Onboard refreshments (chargeable or included, check IRCTC)
- ✔️ Comfortable seating with better legroom
- ✔️ Modern aesthetics and safety features
Stations & Major Stopovers
For the Bhopal ↔ Jabalpur segment, these are the primary stops:
- Rani Kamlapati (RKMP), Bhopal: Major station in Bhopal city.
- Itarsi Junction (ET): Important railway junction connecting north–south lines.
- Pipariya & Narmadapuram: Useful for travellers from central MP.
- Narsinghpur: Convenient for local access before Jabalpur.
- Jabalpur Junction (JBP): Major destination for tourists, business, and onward connections.
How to Book Tickets
Online via IRCTC
- Go to www.irctc.co.in or open the IRCTC app.
- Log in or create an account.
- Enter RKMP/JBP in the “From/To” fields.
- Select date & class (CC/EC).
- Check seat availability.
- Pay securely.
- Save your ticket (OTP required for travel).
Tatkal Booking Option
- Opens typically at 10:00 AM for Chair Car.
- Try for last-minute travel, but prices can be higher.
Assisted Booking Support
- Ticket agents help with IRCTC booking for a fee.
- Useful if you’re new to online railway bookings.
Seat Availability & Booking Strategy
- Book early (45–60 days in advance) for best seats.
- Weekends & holidays sell out faster.
- Tatkal might be your option if general quota is full.
- Use “Flexible dates” for cheaper or better availability.
Why Choose Vande Bharat on This Route?
- 🚆 Faster than all conventional trains between Bhopal and Jabalpur.
- 🪑 Comfortable seats, modern interiors.
- ⏱️ Limited stops mean quicker journey.
- 💡 Ideal for time-sensitive travel (business, meetings, tours).
Travel Tips
- Reach 30 mins before departure.
- Carry valid ID as per IRCTC ticket.
- Snacks/refreshments may cost extra.
- Always check live status if weather or delays are expected.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Vande Bharat Express Bhopal to Jabalpur operates as Train No. 20173 from Rani Kamlapati railway station to Rewa, covering Jabalpur en route, and 20174 in the return direction. It is an official semi-high-speed service operated by Indian Railways with reserved seating only.
Vande Bharat Express Bhopal to Jabalpur departs Rani Kamlapati at 15:30 and reaches Jabalpur Junction railway station at 19:45, taking approximately 4 hours 15 minutes. In the reverse direction, it leaves Jabalpur at 08:25 and arrives Bhopal at 13:30 as per the latest published timetable.
Vande Bharat Express Bhopal to Jabalpur takes approximately 4 hours 15 minutes to cover around 330 kilometers. It is currently the fastest direct train option on this corridor, thanks to limited halts and higher permissible speeds compared to conventional express services.
The approximate fare for Vande Bharat Express Bhopal to Jabalpur is ₹1,135–₹1,185 for AC Chair Car and ₹2,000–₹2,200 for Executive Chair Car under General quota. Tatkal fares are higher. Final pricing depends on demand and is confirmed during booking on IRCTC.
Vande Bharat Express Bhopal to Jabalpur generally runs six days a week, except on its scheduled maintenance day as notified by Indian Railways. Passengers should verify the exact running day for their travel date while checking availability on IRCTC before confirming tickets.
Yes, Tatkal quota is available for Vande Bharat Express Bhopal to Jabalpur. Tatkal booking opens one day prior to departure at 10:00 AM for AC Chair Car and Executive Class. Seats are limited and fares are dynamic, so early login is recommended.
Vande Bharat Express Bhopal to Jabalpur offers two seating classes: AC Chair Car (CC) and Executive Chair Car (EC). Executive Class provides wider seats and additional legroom, while Chair Car offers comfortable airline-style seating suitable for daytime intercity travel.
Catering services are available onboard Vande Bharat Express Bhopal to Jabalpur. Depending on fare structure and passenger selection, meal charges may be included or optional. Passengers can confirm catering inclusion details at the time of booking on IRCTC.
For Vande Bharat Express Bhopal to Jabalpur, booking 2–4 weeks in advance is advisable, especially for weekends and holidays when demand is high. Seat availability reduces quickly due to limited coaches, making early reservation the best strategy for confirmed travel.
Final Verdict
The Vande Bharat Express on the Bhopal ↔ Jabalpur segment is one of the fastest, most comfortable ways to do this journey by rail. If you prioritise time and comfort — especially for business or tourism — booking this service is recommended, provided it fits your schedule and budget.
